I aim to use unique materials, techniques, and content to foster thoughtful conversation about the human interaction with a vanishing rural Minnesota. I will evaluate this outcome by observing visitors to the installation, recording visitors’ reactions (informally and through a sign-in book) and engaging with prospective purchasers of the artwork. 2: I will improve artistic/business skills by working with expert artists and by building a website to publicize the installation and help sell my work. I will learn about approaches to running arts businesses from the bookbinder and metalsmith. I will send my website to curators, collectors, and other artists for critiques and to market my work.

Measurable Outcome(s)

As a result, the artist was asked to display the work at another venue. In addition, there have been numerous requests to purchase the individual works of art. Evaluation methods have centered upon individual conversations with a broad range of people- from children to college students to the elderly. Scientists, academics, farmers, hunters, artists, mechanics, and lawyers have all viewed the exhibition, leading to very diverse findings through the comments recorded. 2: The shift for the artist to think in terms of promoting and selling their work is the greatest outcome as in the past they have been unwilling to try this. The work completed so far has prepared the artist to meet this proposed outcome in the future, however because the website is not yet live the real outcome is not able to be measured.

Description of Funds

Project Overview

Artist Initiative

Project Details

Rossi will create a complex sculptural and photographic installation at the historic Valley Grove Chapel in Nerstrand which will illuminate the natural and cultural history of Rice County, Minnesota. The installation will be open to the public in September 2015.